Drug Charge Attorneys in Lexington, SC

Drug crimes are among the most confusing and disproportionately penalized offenses in the United States. Because most drug laws and penalties depend on the drug type and weight, it can be difficult to understand the consequences of controlled substance convictions in South Carolina.

Discuss the best defense to drug possession, trafficking, and distribution charges with the experienced Lexington drug crimes defense lawyers at Kinard Law Group. With over 25 years of experience defending clients against S.C. federal and state drug charges, let our dedicated criminal defense attorneys advocate for you.

Overview of S.C. Drug Crimes and Penalties

South Carolina drug offenses can be filed at the state or federal level. State courts handle most simple possession and local drug dealing cases, including the majority of misdemeanor drug charges. Federal drug charges are often more serious and generally involve allegations that you’re involved in a major drug trafficking ring that crosses state lines.

Common Drug Charges

Whether you’ve been charged in the Lexington County Court or the Federal District Court, you need an experienced local drug crimes attorney to defend you against the following charges:

• Possession
• Distribution
• Purchase
• Manufacturing
• Trafficking
• Transporting
• Counterfeiting
• Prescription drug fraud
• Aiding and abetting

State charges are generally brought under S.C. Code § 44-53-370.

Potential Drug Crimes Penalties

You need to speak with one of our experienced South Carolina drug crimes defense lawyers to discuss the potential maximum penalty in your case, as sentences can range from community service to a mandatory minimum of 25 years in prison with six-figure fines. Penalties are generally determined based on the drug’s class, type, weight, and the offender’s prior drug conviction history. Courts also consider any aggravating factors associated with the offense, such as possessing a firearm or contributing to fatal overdoses.

Constitutional Defenses to Lexington Drug Offense Charges

Many drug charges arise from unlawful traffic stops or involve illegal searches and seizures. In such cases, our experienced constitutional criminal defense team might argue that all unlawfully seized drug evidence must be suppressed under the ‘exclusionary rule.’ By presenting strong constitutional concerns to Lexington County solicitors, our dedicated drug crimes defense lawyers might get your charges dismissed or negotiate favorable plea deals that qualify you for certain alternative sentencing programs.

Taking Advantage of South Carolina Conditional Discharge and Pretrial Intervention Programs

First-time drug offenders charged with simple possession might qualify for South Carolina’s conditional discharge program. In exchange for pleading guilty and participating in certain rehabilitation and community service programs, the court may dismiss the charges and remove them from your record. Similar diversion options are also available for certain drug offenders under the state’s pretrial intervention program.

Your Drug Crimes Defense Lawyers in Lexington

Even though South Carolina offers drug offenders certain rehabilitation and deferral options, working with an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential for protecting your future. Discuss getting your drug charges dismissed, reduced, or expunged from your record with our dedicated Lexington drug defense team today. Call (803) 359-1003 or connect with us online to schedule a confidential legal consultation.